Please note that a fund for the promotion of Icelandic literature operates under the auspices of the Icelandic Ministry Forlagid of Education and Culture and subsidizes translations of literature. Rights For further information please write to: Icelandic Literature Center Hverfisgata 54 | 101 Reykjavik Agency Iceland Phone +354 552 8500 [email protected] | www.islit.is
PICTURE BOOKS ILLUSTRATED FICTION FICTION Children’s FANTASY YOUNG ADULT SAGAS AND MYTHOLOGY books SCIENCE UA MATTHIASDOTTIR [email protected] VALGERDUR BENEDIKTSDOTTIR [email protected]
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PICTURE BOOKS
HALLDOR A. ELVARSSON: TEXT AND ILLUSTRATIONS HALLDOR A. ELVARSSON (b.1968) is the author of several popular non-fiction books for children. He has received a special award from the Icelandic section of IBBY for his entertaining and original books for young children.
All the Colours of the Animals Litróf dýranna, 2014 This gorgeous book brings the colour spectrum to life with the assistance of vibrant animals from every corner of the world.
HI! MY NAME IS CARLO THE
CHAMELEON AND I CAN CHANGE COLOUR. IF YOU LOOK CLOSE, YOU‘LL FIND ME ON EVERY SPREAD IN THE BOOK. SEE
YOU AROUND!
HARDCOVER 20,5 x 20,5 cm 28 pp
0+ YEARS · 3 · Index ┘
PICTURE BOOKS
ASLAUG JONSDOTTIR TEXT AND ILLUSTRATIONS
A SL AUG JONSDOT TIR (b.1963) received The Reykjavik Children’s Literature Prize for her work as illustrator in 2000, and was nomi- nated for the Hans Christian Andersen Award
HARDCOVER same year. Her illustrations have been selected 30 pp, 15,5 x 29,5 cm for the IBBY Honor List: Children’s Verses with Sold to: Sweden (Kabusa); Faroe text by Bodvar Gudmundsson in 2004 and The Islands (Bókadeildin); China (Maitian Press); United Arab Story of the Blue Planet with text by Andri Sn- Emirates (Hudhud) aer Magnason in 2002, for which she received the West-Nordic Children’s Book Prize and the UKLA Award 2014 along with the author. She has been nominated to the 2015 Astrid Lind- 2–6 YEARS gren Memorial Award for her work.
KALLE GÜETTLER RAKEL HELMSDAL Monster Kitty TEXT Skrímslakisi, 2014 R A K EL HEL MSDA L lives in Torshavn in
HARDCOVER the Faroe Islands. She is an author of children’s 30 pp, 15,5 x 29,5 cm books, plays, and short stories. Sold to: Sweden (Kabusa); Faroe K A LLE GÜET TLER lives in Häverö in the Islands (Bókadeildin); Norway (Skald); China Uppland province in Sweden. Kalle is an author (Maitian Press) of fiction for children and teenagers, as well as textbooks and educational material.
2–6 YEARS This delightful series is written in partnership between three authors from Iceland, Sweden and the Faroe Islands. It has produced seven popular award-winning books, all of which Monster Squabbles focus on human relations and situations which all children face at some time. Skrímslaerjur, 2012 • Nominated to the Nordic Council Children and Young People‘s Literature Prize 2013 · 4 · · 5 · Index ┘
PICTURE BOOKS 2–6 YEARS
HARDCOVER 30 pp, 15,5 x 29,5 cm Monster at the Top Skrímsli á toppnum, 2010
Sold to: Sweden (Kabusa); Faroe Islands (Bókadeildin); China (Maitian Culture) English translation available Monster Visit Skrímsli í heimsókn, 2009
Sold to: Sweden (Kabusa); Faroe Islands (Bókadeildin); Denmark (Torgard); China (Maitian Culture); United Arab Emirates (Hudhud) English translation available Monster Flu Skrímslapest, 2008
Sold to: Sweden (Kabusa); Faroe Islands (Bókadeildin); Denmark (Torgard); France (Circonflexe/Millepages); Norway (Skald) English and Spanish translations available Monster in the Dark Skrímsli í myrkrinu, 2007
Sold to: Sweden (Bonnier Carlsen); Faroe Islands (Bókadeildin); Denmark (Torgard); France (Circonflexe/Millepages); China (Maitian Culture); Norway (Skald); United Arab Emirates (Hudhud) English, Spanish and German translations available Big Monsters Don’t Cry Stór skrímsli gráta ekki, 2006
• Reykjavik’ Children’s Literature Prize Council of Education • Nominated to Le prix des Incorruptibles, France
Sold to: Sweden (Bonnier Carlsen); Faroe Islands (Bókadeildin); Denmark (Torgard); Spain/Catalonia/Galicia/Basque Country (Sushi Books); France (Circonflexe/Millepages); Norway (Skald); China (Maitian Culture); Lithuania (Burokelis); United Arab Emirates (Hudhud); English and Spanish translation available No! Said the Little Monster Nei! Sagði litla skrímslið, 2004
• The Icelandic Illustration Award
Sold to: Sweden (Bonnier Carlsen); Faroe Islands (Bókadeildin); Denmark (Carlsen) Finland (Pieni Karhu); Spain/Catalonia/ Galicia/Basque Country (Sushi Books); France (Circonflexe/ Millepages); Finland (Pieni Karhu); Norway (Skald); China (Maitian Culture); Lithuania (Burokelis); United Arab Emirates (Hudhud) · 4 · · 5 · English and Spanish translation available Index ┘
PICTURE BOOKS
Good Evening Gott kvöld, 2005
When dad pops out to collect mom, a boy is left alone at home, in the sole company of his defenceless teddy bear. But reassuring a teddy bear is easier said than done. The play based on the book received the Icelandic theatre award Griman for the best children’s play in 2008.
HARDCOVER • The Icelandic Booksellers’ Prize as the Best Children’s 26 pp, 24,5 x 21,5 cm Swedish translation available Book of 2005 YEARS 3–9 • The Icelandic Illustration Award • Reykjavik Children’s Literature Prize • Nominated for the Nordic Council Children and Young People’s Literature Prize
The Egg Eggið, 2003
One stormy night the egg falls out of its nest and rolls away. It narrowly escapes the clutches of a wild cat, tango dancers, and a chef, and faces many other mishaps before the shell finally cracks open and the young bird takes to HARDCOVER 32 pp, 20 x 20 cm the sky. An original and exciting story, beauti- English and Spanish translation fully illustrated. available 3–7 YEARS • Selected and listed on White Ravens: Special mention 2004, at the International Youth Library (IYL), in Munich, Germany
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PICTURE BOOKS
BJORK BJARKADOTTIR TEXT AND ILLUSTRATIONS
BJORK BJARKADOTTIR (b.1971) received special recognition from the IBBY in the spring of 2006 for her contribution to children’s culture, as well as The Icelandic Illustration Award the same year for her book Granny Goes on Summer Holiday. www.bjorkbjarka.no
Darling Dad Elsku besti pabbi, 2008
Dad is number one on Emilia’s list. She has the best dad in the entire world, as funny as a clown, as lithe as a monkey, and as strong as a bear. But when dad gets ill, Emilia has to act responsibly and do her bit to help him get well
HARDCOVER again quickly. Darling Dad is a companion 26 pp, 20 x 20 cm YEARS Sold to: Norway (Skald); 1–5 volume to the popular Mom is Best. The short Egypt (Boustany) English and German translations and simple text is brought to life by the lively available and inspired illustrations which make an instant hit with children.
• Selected for the IBBY Honour List 2010 Mom is Best Mamma er best, 2005
Tommy likes sitting in his mom’s lap. But when mom develops a balloon belly there’s hardly any HARDCOVER 26 pp, 20 x 20 cm room for him anymore. This makes him wonder Sold to: Austria/Germany (Picus Verlag); Norway (Skald); Egypt (Boustany) if another type of mom might not be better. English translation available 1–5 YEARS Maybe an elephant mom or a fish mom or even a flying dragon mom? But in the end Tommy comes to realise that his own mom is best.
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PICTURE BOOKS
The Super Granny Series Oli‘s grandmother is a Supergranny who flies about at night capturing thugs and thieves. Once in a while Oli gets to go with her and that‘s when the fun begins. Oli and Supergranny‘s exciting adventures are told in en- chanting text and delightful illustrations.
Granny Goes on Summer Holiday Amma fer í sumarfrí, 2006
HARDCOVER 32 pp, 20,5 x 25 cm English and German YEARS translations available 3–7
Granny’s Secret Leyndarmálið hennar ömmu, 2003
HARDCOVER 32 pp, 20,5 x 25 cm YEARS English translation available 3–7
Granny and the Thief in the Gallery Amma og þjófurinn í safninu, 2004
HARDCOVER 32 pp, 20,5 x 25 cm English translation available 3–7 YEARS Supergranny and the Pirates Súperamma og sjóræningjarnir, 2009
HARDCOVER 32 pp, 20,5 x 25 cm 3–7 YEARS
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PICTURE BOOKS
SIGRUN DANIELSDOTTIR TEXT BJÖRK BJARKADOTTIR ILLUSTR AT IONS (author information on page 7)
SIGRUN DANIELSDÓTTIR (b.1975) is a psychologist specializing in body image and eating issues. She believes all bodies are created equal and kids should be supported in being happy in their own, unique skin. Your Body is Brilliant Kroppurinn er kraftaverk, 2014
Bodies do all sorts of amazing things, like move around, grow bigger, and heal themselves. Bodies also come in all sorts of shapes and sizes and we need to take care of them so that they stay healthy and strong. If we listen to our bodies they tell us exactly what they need. The colourful illustrations in this unique picture book will encourage children to love their bodies from an early age. By learning about all the wonderful things bodies do, and how each body is different and unique, children will be inspired to take good care of their HARDCOVER 34 pp, 24,6x 24,6 cm bodies throughout their lives. English translation available Sold to: World English (Singing Dragon); Promoting respect for body diversity among Denmark (Turbine); Brazil (Nova Alexandria); South Korea children will also encourage kindness and (Prunsoop); South America (Amanuense) help prevent bullying. YEARS This book is ideal for children aged 3 and FROM 3 upwards to read at home or school, either alone or with a parent, family member, teacher, or other caring professional.
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PICTURE BOOKS
JONA VALBORG ARNADOTTIR TE X T
ELSA NIELSEN ILLUSTR ATIONS
JONA VALBORGARNADOTTIR (b.1973) has a degree in Human Resources and a M.Paed. in Icelandic and Pedagogy from the University of Iceland. She has worked as a teacher, copywriter, marketing manager, and has directed an indepen- dent theatre group. Jona started writing the moment she got hold of a pen. ELSA NIELSEN (b.1974) is an illustrator and senior graph- ic designer. She graduated from the Iceland Academy of Arts and has received various nominations and awards for her graphic design work.
The Book of Hugs Knúsbókin, 2012 When Sola is offered to stay at Grandma’s, she jumps at the chance. Once there, though, she is thrown into a world that is not without its dan- gers. Grandma has gone missing, and Sola will have to show what she is made of.
The Book of Hugs is an enchanting contemporary adventure, thought-provoking for children and grownups alike. It’s an independent sequel to The Book of Smiles, which was nominated for the 2013 Icelandic Literary Prize for Children and
HARDCOVER Young People’s Books. 48 pp, 17,5 x 23,5 cm
3-6 YEARS
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PICTURE BOOKS
GUDRUN H ELGADOTTIR TEXT (author information on page 28) ANNA CYNTHIA LEPLAR ILLUSTR ATIONS
A N NA C Y N THI A LEPL A R (b.1953) is among the best known illustrators and children’s book designers in Iceland.
A Little Story About a Lazy Chick Lítil saga um latan unga, 2010
Little Chick is so happy in his nest with his mummy that he doesn’t ever want to leave it. It is, therefore, very appropriate for his mummy to call him Nestor! And mummy does every- thing NestorHún var um asks, það bil sheað gefast finds upp þegar his húnfavourite rak annan fótinnworms í eitthvað mjúkt. Hún beygði sig niður og hélt fyrst að þetta væri sofandi hagamús. En þetta var hann. Unginn hennar. and insectsHann láfor þarna him eins ogand hann keeps væri dáinn. the En nest þegar húntidy. hristi hann kom í ljós að það var hann alls ekki. Það hafði bara liðið One day,yfir hannhowever, af skelfingu. mummy Og þegar hann has rankaði had við enough. sér og hann uppgötvaði að hann lá á jörðinni, aleinn, ískaldur og svangur, og An entertainingengin mamma neins tale staðar, about steinleið being yfir hann independent. aftur. Hann hafði enga krafta til að fljúga og varð ekki lítið glaður þegar hann sá mömmu sína lifandi komna. Mömmuna sem alltaf hafði verið svo ótrúlega góð við hann.
HARDCOVER 26 pp, 20x 26,5 cm English translation available YEARS FROM 4
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PICTURE BOOKS
KRISTIN STEINSDOTTIR TEXT HALLA S. THORGEIRSDOTTIR ILLUSTR ATIONS
K R ISTIN STEINSDOT TIR (b.1946) is one of Iceland’s best known authors of children’s books and has received numerous recognitions for her work. Her first book, pub- lished in 1987, received the Icelandic Children’s Literature Prize that year. Her book, An Angel in the Neighbourhood, won the Nordic Council Children and Young People’s Lit- erature Prize in 2003. Steinsdottir has received the highest order of the Republic of Iceland, the Order of the Falcon, for her contribution to Icelandic literature. H A LL A S. THORGEIR SDOT TIR (b.1965) is an award- winning artist and illustrator. She has illustrated dozens of children’s books and received The Dimmalimm Prize for Illustration in 2002 for her artwork in the book An Angel in the Neighbourhood.
Who Eats Polar Bears? Hver étur ísbirni? 2006
Young Rissa and her family have spent their winter on the western cost of Greenland. There are many animals that can be seen in the sea, but unfortunately no polar bears. Rissa and her sister, Skegla, set off on a long journey to find some. An educational and entertaining story, which shows us how both men and animals live during the winter in Greenland.
HARDCOVER 40 pp, 20 x 27,5 cm YEARS Sold to: 3–7 Denmark/Greenland (Milik)
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PICTURE BOOKS
HALLFRIDUR OLAFSDOTTIR TEXT THORARINN M. BALDURSSON ILLUSTR ATIONS
HALLFRIDUR OLAFSDOTTIR (b.1964) is principal flautist of the Iceland Symphony Orchestra and an experienced music teacher. THORARINN MAR BALDURSSON (b.1977) is a violist in the Iceland Symphony Orchestra. maximusmusicus.com
Maximus Musicus Visits the Orchestra Maxímús Músíkús heimsækir hljómsveitina, 2008
Maximus Musicus really hit the jackpot one day, when he wandered into a concert hall where a symphony orchestra was rehearsing. This lively tale leads the reader into the magical world of HARDCOVER YEARS music. The musical instruments are introduced 48 pp, 21,5 x 26,5 cm 4–9 Sold to: Australia (alto books); Korea (Daekyo); one by one, as Maxi’s story progresses and Faroe Islands (Bókadeildin); Germany (Schott Music); readers learn to recognize the sounds each of UK and USA (Music Word Media); China (99 Shanghai Readers’ Culture); Brazil (Mel- them produces. The book includes a CD telling horamentos) English, German and Finnish the story with animated sound effects and the translations available Iceland Symphony Orchestra plays the passages of music it includes.
• Reykjavik Children’s Literature Prize 2008 • The Icelandic Women’s Literature Prize 2008 • Nominated for the Frettabladid Community Award 2010
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PICTURE BOOKS
r isku fylg d ir la s i e
G Maxímús Músíkús trítlar í tónlistarskólann
Maxímús Músíkús axímús býr í gömlum bassa í stóra tónlistarhúsinu og líkar lífið vel. M Einn daginn fer hann í óvænt ferðalag og kemst að því að börn geta líka spilað á hljóðfæri, meira að segja á tónleikum! M úsíkús Tónelska músin Maxímús kom fyrst fram á sjónarsviðið í bókinni Maxímús Músíkús heimsækir hljómsveitina og hefur trítlar í tónlistarskólann Maximus Musicus heillað fjölda barna, hér heima og erlendis.
Hér er komin ný og spennandi saga um Maxa eftir hljóð- Visits the Music School færaleikarana Hallfríði Ólafsdóttur og Þórarin Má Baldursson. Bókinni fylgir geisladiskur þar sem Valur Freyr Einarsson leikari les söguna og ungir einleikarar leika tónverkin sem við sögu koma ásamt Sinfóníuhljómsveit Íslands undir stjórn Daníels Bjarnasonar. Maxímús Músíkús trítlar í tónlistarskólann, 2010
Maximus Musicus lives in an old bass in the corner of a large concert hall and enjoys his happy and melodious life. Embarking on an Hallfrí ur Ólafsdóttir Þórarinn Már Baldursson unexpected journey one day, he discovers that children can also play musical instruments, HARDCOVER YEARS even in concerts! The music-loving Maximus 48 pp, 21,5 x 26,5 cm 4–9 Sold to: made his début in the book Maximus Musicus Germany (Schott Music); China (99 Shanghai Readers’ Culture); Brazil Visits the Orchestra, and became an instant (Melhoramentos) English and German translations favourite with young children in Iceland. Now available there is a new tale of Maxi and his adventures. The book is accompanied by a CD with the story narrated by actor Valur Freyr Einarsson, while young soloists play the musical chapters of the story accompanied by the Iceland Symphony Orchestra, directed by Daniel Bjarnason.
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PICTURE BOOKS
Maximus Musicus Saves the Ballet Maxímús Músíkús bjargar ball- ettinum, 2012
Maximus Musicus is a musical mouse and when he returns one morning after an invigorating walk, some interesting guests are arriving at the concert hall – large groups of children! The youngsters are there to rehearse a ballet with the symphony orchestra and they dance so well that Maxi becomes curious. Where did they become so good? Maxi decides to find out and has a great day at the ballet school. On re- turning to the concert hall, Maxi manages to save the performance just in time for curtain- up. The story revolves around the music of the Mother Goose Suite by Maurice Ravel with its many different fairy-tale characters: Sleeping Beauty, Tom Thumb, Beauty and the Beast, a Chinese Princess, and a Fairytale Garden, as well as Glazunov’s Winter, Tchaikovski’s HARDCOVER YEARS 48 pp, 21,5 x 26,5 cm 4–9 Sleeping Beauty Ouverture, and Pas de deux. Sold to: Germany (Schott Music); The story ends with Fire by Icelandic composer Brazil (Melhoramentos) English and German translations Jórunn Vidar. available
“Maximus Musicus Saves the Ballet is a wonderful and imaginative book, fantastically illustrated and a delightful intro- duction to the world of Ballet. Bravo!”
HELGI TOMASSON, ARTISTIC DIRECTOR OF THE SAN FRANCISCO BALLET
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PICTURE BOOKS
Maximus Musicus Meets the Choir Maxímús Músíkús kætist í kór, 2014
As the trees start bearing fruit, Maximus Musicus begins to miss his home pastures; he would love to be back in the country, picking berries. When Maximus hears a group of chil- dren singing in the concert hall, and realises that they are about to go on a trip, he impul- sively joins them.
Maximus Musicus Meets the Choir is the fourth book about the music-loving mouse, who has become a household name amongst Icelandic children. This time he joins a children’s choir leaving for a weekend of rehearsals in the coun- try — and finds himself in a tight spot with the local farmer’s cat. He then saves the day for two young choristers who are feeling very homesick.
HARDCOVER 48 pp, 21,5 x 26,5 cm 4–9 YEARS
· 16 · · 17 · Index ┘
PICTURE BOOKS
INGIBJORG SIGURDARDOTTIR TE X T BRIAN PILKINGTON ILLUSTR ATIONS
INGIBJORG SIGURDARDOTTIR (1953–2010) studied arts and crafts at the Iceland Academy of the Arts, and at Konstfackskolan in Stockholm, Sweden. BRIAN PILKINGTON (b.1950) is very well known for his brilliant book illustrations. He has written and illustrated many books for children, which have been published in a number of countries.
Flowers on the Roof Blómin á þakinu, 1985
A funny story of Granny Gunn who used to live in the country in an old farmhouse with grass and flowers on the HARDCOVER roof. Then she moved to town with everything she owned. 24 pp, 20 x 26 cm YEARS Sold to: 4–8 But what should she do with her animals and her flowers? Korea (Jaeum & Moeum Publishing); Japan (Sa-e-la Shobo) When she got bored, a boy from the neighbourhood helped Published in German, French and English, by Mal og menning. her move a little bit of the countryside to town.
A Puffin Called Fido Lubbi lundi, 2009 TEXT AND ILLUSTRATIONS BY BRIAN PILKINGTON
Gina lives in the Westman Isles. Every spring she looks forward to the return of the millions of puffins that visit the HARDCOVER 24 pp island to mate and raise their families. One of them becomes 21 x 24 cm her special friend. A puffin called Fido! Available in English 3-6 YEARS
· 17 · Index ┘
PICTURE BOOKS
SIGRUN ELDJARN TEXT AND ILLUSTRATIONS
SIGRU N ELDJA R N (b.1954) has written and illustrated high on forty children’s books. She was the first author to re- ceive the Sogusteinn Children’s Book Award for her literary career in 2007, having received up to that point several awards and recognition for her work, among others Reykja- vik Children’s Literature Prize three times and nominations to the H.C. Andersen Award, The Nordic Council Children and Young People’s Literature Prize, The Icelandic Optimism Prize and the West-Nordic Children’s Literature Prize.
Betwo Bétveir, 2012
One sunny day a pink spaceship lands in the garden of Aki and his siblings. Out of it emerges a strange being with two heads who claims his name is Betwo. The being is curious regarding life on Earth, especially regarding a puzzling phenomenon he has observed from outer space. Betwo spends an entire day with the siblings; encounters a lady who sometimes writes stories, gets to know grandpa‘s hot cocoa and
HARDCOVER granny‘s woolly socks. Last but not least he gets 42 pp, 20 x 27,5 cm 3+ English and German translations to know all about the mysterious phenomenon available – books – and they do not disappoint him in the least! Betwo is one of Sigrun Eldjarn’s first titles and played an important role in establishing her as the favourite author of numerous Icelandic children. This is an updated edition with new and fun illustrations by the author.
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PICTURE BOOKS
BERND OGRODNIK TE X T KRISTIN MARIA INGIMARSDOTTIR ILLUSTR ATIONS
BERND OGRODNIK (b.1961 in Germany) works as a performer, designer, builder, teacher and director. His approach is strongly influenced by his background as a classical musician, illustrator, woodworker, and martial artist, and his work has best been described as “food for the soul, not chewing gum for the eyes”. figurentheater.is KRISTIN MARIA INGIMARSDOTTIR (b.1962) studied art and animation, first in Iceland and later in the USA where she lived between 1984-1994. After a return back to Iceland, where she lives now, she has worked making animation, illustration, and graphic design as well as teaching.
The Troll and the Raven Gilitrutt og hrafninn, 2013
Newlyweds Jon and Freyja love each other dearly. Jon is a respectable farmer who works hard from dawn until dusk, but Freyja likes to sleep late and do as little as possible. Freyja is delighted when a mysterious old woman appears and offers to weave wool into cloth for her, but she soon starts to worry about the price she might have to pay. Fortunately Jon always remembers to feed the raven, and the raven rewards Jon’s kindness. The story of the troll Gilitrutt and the young HARDCOVER couple on a farm in the shadow of Mount Eyja- 41pp, 24x27 cm English and German translations available fjallajökull is an old Icelandic folktale. This version is based on the popular puppet show by 4–10 YEARS Bernd Ogrodnik, which received Griman, the Icelandic Theatre Award, for best children’s show in 2011. Kristin Maria Ingimarsdottir created the illustrations derived from the original play. · 19 · Index ┘
PICTURE BOOKS
BRIAN PILKINGTON ILLUSTR AT IONS (see author information on page 17) GUDRUN H ELGADOTTIR TEXT (see author information on page 28)
A Giant Love Story Ástarsaga úr fjöllunum, 1999
One of Iceland’s most popular children’s books. It was first published in 1981 and has since been translated into several other languages. The story gives the reader an unforgettable insight into the magic world of Icelandic legend and folklore. It is an exciting story – filled with love, compassion, and humour which appeals to 3–7 YEARS children a over the world. HARDCOVER 32 pp, 21 x 29 cm Published in English, German, Danish, Norwegian and French by Mal og menning. Sold to: Norway (Cappelen); Denmark (Sesam); Sweden (Opal); Faroe Islands (Nylendi); USA (Charolrhoda); Japan (Kaisei-Sha); Korea (BIR Publishing); Italy (RCS Libri/Fabbri Editori); Estonia (Valgus); Slovenia (ProAndy); Mainland China (Beijing Science and Technology Press) · 20 · · 21 · Index ┘
PICTURE BOOKS Dynkur Dynkur, 2004
Dynkur the troll boy is afraid of the daylight and all the curious people who wander by his cave from time to time. But his mother convinces him that there is nothing to fear, and together they venture forth into the wilderness to gather plants and mushrooms. The world outside is nothing like Dynkur expected it to
HARDCOVER be – and neither are the people, who appear little 24 pp, 21 x 26,5 cm and harmless. Brian Pilkington’s stories of Icelandic Sold to: 3–7 YEARS France/Canada (Broquet) English translation available trolls have long been well known and respected nationwide, as well as abroad, and deserve a place at every child’s bedside.
Stumble Hlunkur, 2000
An enchanting tale of a troll who wakes up from a long, deep sleep, in the middle of nowhere. He doesn’t know who he is, or what to do. Only two
HARDCOVER ravens take an interest in him. He follows them, 24 pp, 21 x 26,5 cm YEARS and gradually things become clearer in his mind. Sold to: 3–7 Brazil (Caixote); Denmark (Gad); Korea (Yeo Myung Media); In the end he discovers that everybody is welcome France/Canada (Broquet); Slovenia (ProAndy); Russia (Ripol) somewhere – even trolls! Published in English, by Mal og menning Icelandic Trolls Allt um tröll, 1999
In this stunningly beautiful book, Brian Pilkington brings the amazing world of the trolls to life in an amusing and original fashion. The Icelandic folk legends have been used as a background, but a great deal of new and surprising information has been HARDCOVER added concerning the living conditions, traditions, 24 pp, 21 x 26,5 cm YEARS Sold to: 6+ France/Canada (Broquet); and customs of these ancient creatures. Denmark (Gad); Italy (RCS Libri/ FabbriEditori); Estonia (Ilo); Russia (Ripol) Published in English, German and · 21 · French by Mal og menning Index ┘
PICTURE BOOKS
BRIAN PILKINGTON TEXT AND ILLUSTRATIONS
A Fortnight Before Christmas Þrettán dagar til jóla, 2014
A charming Icelandic Christmas tale about the troll Gryla and her sons, the 13 Yule Lads. Aimed at children from 2 to 7 years old, and anyone who is still a child at heart. A wonderfully warm story despite all the snow. HARDCOVER 32 pp, 23 x 24 cm Also includes an introduction to the Icelandic Published in Icelandic and English by Mal og menning Christmas Family and the unique customs that occur during the holiday season in Iceland.
The 13 Christmas Lads Jólasveinarnir 13, 2009
In Iceland there isn’t just one Father Christmas, there are thirteen Christmas brothers! Before Christmas they visit Icelandic children and sneak something nice into their shoe. Here you can read all about these lads, what each of them YEARS PAPERBACK 4–8 likes to do and their favourite foods. Yet again, 36 pp, 23 x 23 cm Published in Icelandic, German Brian Pilkington produces an oiginal and and English, by Mal og menning entertaining work based on traditional Icelandic tales and folk beliefs.
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ILLUSTRATED FICTION
BRIAN PILKINGTON ANDRI SNAER MAGNASON TEXT AND ILLUSTRATIONS TEXT
ASLAUG JONSDOTTIR ILLUSTRATIONS (author information on page 4)
ANDRI SNAER MAGNASON (b.1973) has won the Icelandic Literary Prize for both fiction, children´s book and non fiction, his work has been published or performed in over 30 countries and received numerous international awards, amongst them the Janusz Korczak Honorary Award, the West Nordic Children’s Book Prize and the Alfred Toep- fer Kairos Prize in 2010. Magnason has been active in the fight against the destruction of the Icelandic Highlands. andrimagnason.c0m The Story of the Blue Planet Sagan af bláa hnettinum, 1999 On a blue planet far out in space there are no adults, only children, who play when they want to and go to sleep when they are tired. Then a mysterious man lands on the planet, and teaches them how to fly when the sun shines, by flicking the dust off butterflies’ wings. A perilous adventure ensues, taking the children through dark forests and skies of blue. Their friendship and ingenuity are put to the test as never before. A captivating and subtle adventure that has all the ingredients of a classic. A play based on the book premiered in HARDCOVER 95 pp, 21,5 x 26,5 cm 6+ YEARS The Icelandic National Theatre in 2001 and has Sold to: France (Gallimard); Denmark (Gads Forlag); Sweden since travelled around the world in theatres in (Kabusa); Faroe Islands (Bókadeildin); Greenland Sweden, Pakistan, Bucharest, London, Berlin, (Atuakkiorfik); Estonia (Eesti Raamat); Spain (Omega); Italy (RCS Libri/Fabbri Editori); Yugoslavia (Izdavacka Chicago and Toronto, to name a few. Kuca Draganic); Thailand (Image Publishing); Greece (Patakis); Korea (Tin Drum Publishing); Japan (Gakken); • The West-Nordic Children’s Literature Prize 2002 China (Beijing Yuanliu Classic Culture, Ltd.); Romania • The Janusz Korczak Honorary Awards and Hungary (Koinónia); Lithuania (Zara); Germany (Leipziger Kinderbuchverlag); Finland (Pieni Karhu); • The Icelandic Literary Prize Russia (OM Books); Turkey (Pegasus Yayinlari); Norway • Nomination for the Nordic Council Children and (Commentum/audiobook: Karviland); US/UK/Australia/ Canada (Seven Stories Press); Brazil/Portugal (Hedra); Young People’s Literary Prize Taiwan (Commonwealth Publishing ); Lebanon (Arab • Nomination for the IBBY Iceland’s Children Scientific Publishing); Poland (EneDueRabe) Translation available in English Literature Prize The play in German, English and Romanian. • The National Theatre Prize for New Plays • Nomination for Reykjavik Children’s Literary Prize • Nominated to the IBBY International Honour List · 23 · 2001 for Illustrations • UKLA (UK Literacy Association) Book award 2014 • Green Earth Book Honor Award 2013, USA Index ┘
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GERDUR KRISTNY TEXT HALLDOR BALDURSSON ILLUSTRATIONS
GERDUR KRISTNY (b.1970) proved herself as one of Iceland’s most interesting poets with her first book, and has since then published several books of poetry, as well as short stories, novels, and children’s books. She received the Icelandic Children’s Literature Prize for Smart Marta, The Halldor Laxness Award for her novel A Boat with Sails and All, and the Icelandic Literary Award for her book of poetry, Bloodhoof. HALLDOR BALDURSSON (b.1965) has illustrated numerous books for children and is also well known for his caricatures.
The President, the Princess and the Sleeping Palace Forsetinn, prinsessan og höllin sem svaf, 2011
The president is going abroad! The princess’s mot- her is to be crowned queen and her father is to be crowned king and the president has been invited to the party. But there is something mysterious going on at the palace. HARDCOVER 96 pp, 14 x 22 cm 6–10 YEARS The President, the Princess and the Sleeping Palace is Gerdur Kristny’s third book about these lively characters, who have enjoyed great popula- rity both in books and on the stage of the National Theatre of Iceland. The story is richly illustrated by Halldor Baldursson.
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The Princess at Bessastadir Prinsessan á Bessastöðum, 2009
The President has some important guests at his residence, Bessastadir: a king, a queen, and a prin- cess! Independence Day approaches, when lots of hard-working people are supposed to be awarded the Falcon Medal. But before the Falcon Order Party can start, all kinds of things happen, involv- ing waterfalls, old, hard doughnuts, an aggressive
YEARS chicken, a bride and groom, and a marzipan ring 6–10 cake that keeps shrinking…
The Ball at Bessastadir HARDCOVER 96 pp, 14 x 22 cm Ball á Bessastöðum, 2007
The Ball at Bessastadir is about a president who GERDUR KRISTNY is bored at work. He is also lonely – because even TEXT though he gets many letters every day he is the THOREY MJALLHVIT only president in the country and can’t speak to ILLUSTR ATIONS any other president about presidential stuff. For instance: is it better to wave to children with your THOREY MJALLHVIT (b.1980) is right hand or your left? He has no idea! specialized in 2D animation and design, educated from the University of Wales, Newport, Department of Animation. The Land of Lost Socks Land hinna týndu sokka, 2006
Thorgeir is dying for a dog. But because of the yellow dog who disappeared long ago, his dream is unlikely to become true – until one day he discov- ers the Land of Lost Socks. This is the place where old lost things end up, so maybe his dog as well! A mysterious and exciting story by an award- YEARS 6–10 winning author.
HARDCOVER 140 pp, 14,5 x 21,5 cm Chapters in English available · 25 · Index ┘
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KRISTIN HELGA GUNNARSDOTTIR TE X T LINDA OLAFSDOTTIR ILLUSTRATIONS
KRISTIN HELGA GUNNARSDOTTIR (b.1963) has in the past years established herself as one of the most popular writers in Iceland. Gunnarsdottir received the West-Nordic Children’s Literature Prize for her title Ghost Trail which was also nominated for the Nordic Council Children and Young People’s Award. She has received and been nominated for Reykjavik Children’s Literature Prize and four of her books have been chosen Book of the Year by library visitors of 6 to 12 years. Gunnarsdottir was awarded the Story Stone of IBBY 2009 for her writer’s career. She has been nominated to the 2015 Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award for her work. LINDA OLAFSDOTTIR (b.1978) has a BFA degree from the Icelandic Academy of Arts and an MFA degree in Illustration from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco. She received the IBBY Iceland Spring Breeze award in 2014. lindaolafsdottir.com
Moe the Prankster – Misunderstood Genius Mói hrekkjusvín – Misskilinn snillingur, 2014
Moe the Prankster – Cowboy in Arizona Mói hrekkjusvín – kúreki í Arisóna, 2013
This hilarious series chronicles the 9-year old Moe‘s various escapades, along with his best friend and a long dead cowboy from the wild west, called Gun Joe. Moe is kind at heart but gets crazy ideas that sometimes get him into
HARDCOVER trouble. 120 pp and 96 pp, 15 x 21 cm Sold to: Germany/Austria/Switzer- land (Muekenschwein) Excerpts in English available German translation available · 26 · 6+ YEARS · 27 · Index ┘
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Grimm’s Tale An Authorized Biography of a Dog Grímsævintýri, 2012
Here is a biography of the happy-go-lucky family dog, Grimm Dandelion, that never hunted birds but would hurt a fly once in a while. Grimm Dandelion went to Dog Academy. It didn’t do him much good but he did however teach Her Greatness and Grumpy a thing or two, and so much more than they ever managed to teach him. Good friends don’t necessary all walk on two feet. This is a story of the faithful dog who was sometimes dog-tired and bored, but mostly happy as a hound. A book for all animal HARDCOVER 6+ lovers! 117 pp, 14 x 21,5 cm
• Nominated for The Icelandic Women‘s Literature Prize The Fiasol series Fíasól 2004-2010 4–10 YEARS
Fiasol is a seven-year old girl with a mind of her own who gets into all sorts of exciting adventures and sometimes into trouble. Would you: ...steal a fishing boat? …eat sugar with pirates? …camp in your living room? …keep floor ghosts under your bed? …store furry devils in your toy box? …move into a shack with a best friend? ...kidnap a monkey? …order servants to clean your room? … celebrate the equipment free day? …write yourself a fan letter? …argue with Santa? …leave home to explore the world and return in a police car? PICTURE BOOK, Well, if you are Fiasol you would! HARDCOVER 29 pp, 21,8 x 24 cm We were going to keep quiet about her adventures, but now it’s time to let the English and German cat out of the bag! translations available
HARDCOVER HARDCOVER HARDCOVER HARDCOVER 146 pp, 14 x 21,5 cm 110 pp, 14 x 21,5 cm 110 pp, 14 x 21,5 cm 110 pp, 14 x 21,5 cm • Children´s Choice • Children´s Choice • Children´s Choice Book Prize 2009 Book Prize 2007 Book Prize 2006 Sold to: Serbia (Bestseler doo)
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GUDRUN HELGADOTTIR TEXT
GUDRUN HELGADOTTIR (b.1935) published her first book in 1974 and has since been one of Iceland’s most popu- lar and respected children’s authors. From that date onwards she has published over two dozen books. Helgadottir has re- ceived several prizes and recognitions for her work. In 1992 she received the Nordic Council Children and Young People’s Literature Prize for the book From Beneath the Weeds, in 1994 she received the Reykjavik Children’s Literature Prize for Poor Little Things, in 2005 the book Different Family re- ceived The Children’ s Choice Book Prize and later that year she recived The Jonas Hallgrimsson award for her contribu- tion to the Icelandic language. She received the DV Cultural Prize Honour Award in 2014 for her lifetime achievements.
Plain Fun Bara gaman, 2008
Life in Bakkabaer is exactly as it should be. A part from the fact that Tumi is worried that mum doesn’t have a boyfriend, and his sister Vildis would really want her to have a bit more money. But little Vala has no worries and neither has mum. She works like mad in her workshop and has no idea that they need a man about the house. Plain Fun is a riotous family story by one of Ice- land’s most popular children’s authors. The readers YEARS are invited to spend the summer with the family in HARDCOVER 6+ 137 pp, 16 x 22 cm Bakkabaer and it’s just plain fun! Sold to: Germany/Austria/Switzerland (Dressler Verlag)
• Selected one of the 7 best books for young readers 2013 by Deutschland Radio and Focus Magazine
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Pleasure’s Mine! Ekkert að þakka! 1995
Eva and Ari Sveinn find a bag containing lots and lots of money, which was thrown from a speeding car by some shady characters fleeing from the police. They start giving the money to people who need it very badly,
HARDCOVER like their parents, without letting anyone know who the 125 pp, 16,5 x 21,5 cm donor is! A great mixture of suspense and humour. Sold to: Denmark (Klim); Faroe Islands (Bókadeildin) Available in English • Book of the month in Lindhardt & Ringhof‘s Children‘s Book Club, Denmark, 2002
Don’t You Believe It! Ekkert að marka! 1996
We meet again the delightful characters from the best- selling Pleasure‘s Mine! Who find themselves in another adventure. Something strange is happening at Lina’s house at dead of night. Even though they find out the truth, nothing is what it seems, and there are various HARDCOVER 112 pp, 16,5 x 21,5 cm obstacles in their path... Sold to: Denmark (Klim); Faroe Islands (Bókadeildin)
You Never Know! Aldrei að vita! 1998
You Never Know! has all the qualities of a good story: an exciting plot, humorous episodes, and well-rounded characters. The children are on a visit out in the country when they notice strange goings-on at a sea-rescue cabin. Before they know it, they are caught up in midnight adventures.
HARDCOVER 120 pp, 16,5 x 21,5 cm Sold to: Denmark (Klim); Faroe YEARS Islands (Bókadeildin) 7–12 · 29 · Index ┘
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STEINUNN JOHANNESDOTTIR TE X T ANNA CYNTHIA LEPLAR ILLUSTRATIONS (author information on page 11)
STEINUNN JOHANNESDOTTIR (b.1948) studied drama in Stockholm and worked as an actress for some years. She has written highly acclaimed historical novels about both Hallgrimur Petursson and his wife Gudridur.
Hallgrimur’s Christmas Jólin hans Hallgríms, 2014
It is almost Christmas. Hallgrimur is looking forward to the festivities but is kept busy while he waits. The farm animals need taking care of, the house must be cleaned and the food must be prepared, and Hallgrimur also has to learn a beauti- ful Christmas carol and teach it to his brothers. Amidst all these chores, an unexpected event takes place – a miracle of sorts. Hallgrimur‘s Christmas tells of advent on the farm Grof in Hofdastrond in northern Iceland, in the year 1621 when Hallgrimur Petursson, later a prolific poet, was seven years old. Although much has changed over the past four centuries, there are many familiar aspects to the celebrations of the household at Grof, and then, just like now, the hearts of men grow lighter although darkness looms. HARDCOVER 48 pp, 19 x 26 cm
6+ YEARS
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KRISTIN STEINSDOTTIR TE X T (author information on page 12) HALLA S. T HORGEIRSDOTTIR ILLUSTR ATIONS (author information on page 12)
An Angel in the Neighbourhood Engill í vesturbænum, 2002
Askur lives with his mother in a block in the west of Reykjavik. Everyone thinks only very ordinary people live there – but he knows bet- ter. A werewolf is on the loose, as well as Pippi Longstockings, silverfish, and an angel, to men- tion but a few. A fascinating and original story in which a boy’s speculations about life conjure up countless images, and imagination runs rampant. Each page is beautifully illustrated in colour, adding a magical touch to the story.
• The Nordic Council Children and Young People’s Literature Prize 2003 • IBBY Iceland’s Children Literature Prize • The Icelandic Illustration Award 2002 • Reykjavik Children’s Literature Prize 2003 • The West-Nordic Children’s Literary Prize 2004 HARDCOVER 7+ YEARS 98 pp, 20,5 x 21,5 cm • Tower of Babel Honour Diploma, IBBY Estonia Sold to: Sweden (Kabusa); Finland (Idun); Faroe • Chosen one of the 100 best children‘s books of Iceland Islands (Bokadeildin); Greenland (Milik); Denmark (Milik); Lit- by Icelandic librarians huania (Zara); Estonia (Nynorden); Turkey (Aylak Adam); Slovenia (Malinc); Hungary (Pongrác Kiadó) German translation available Chapters in English available
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GUDNI LINDAL BENEDIKTSSON TE X T GUDNI LINDAL BENEDIKTSSON (b. 1987) studied screen- writing and directing. He has worked as a scriptwriter for television and worked on films such as Of Horses and Men, and Thor 2: The Dark World. He became fascinated at an early age by the art of storytelling through books, movies, comics, and video games and has written plays, short stories, and short film. Presently he is working on a screenplay for a feature film, while finishing his MA in Screenwriting in Edinburgh. He received the Icelandic Children’s Book Prize in 2014 for his book The Search for Blood Island. The Incredible Adventures of Grandpa – The Search for Blood Island
Ótrúleg ævintýri afa – Leitin að Blóðey, 2014
When Kristjan is sent off to bed early, Grandpa tells him a hair-raising tale. It’s a rollicking adventure from his younger days, when he was slightly less bald and no one had a cell phone. It’s a tale of wizards, ninjas, griffons, dragons, trolls, eldritch abominations – and a mysterious island found on no map. Although Grandpa insists that it’s all true, the story is more incredible than anything Kristjan has heard before.
HARDCOVER 198 pp, 14 x 21 cm The Search for Blood Island is Gudni Lindal Benediktson’s 7+ YEARS first book, a heart-thumping and hilarious romp for ages 7-12, and the winner of the Icelandic Children’s Literature Prize in 2014. Illustrations by Ivan Cappelli.
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SIGRUN ELDJARN TEXT AND ILLUSTRATIONS (see author information on page 18)
The Haunting of Shadowskerry Draugagangur á Skuggaskeri, 2014
The runaways on Shadowskerry have been found! But they refuse to return home until the adults have fixed everything that was ruined in the war back home in the valley. Summer is coming and Shadowskerry is the best place in the whole world. Or is it? Is there something dangerous afoot? The children come across mysterious men and a spooky little girl! Are they living people – or ghosts?
HARDCOVER 206 pp, 14x21 cm 9+ YEARS The Runaways on Shadowskerry Strokubörnin á Skuggaskeri, 2013
Once upon a time Austurhlid and Vesturhlid were peaceful towns where it was good to live in. Now, a war has started and the adults are all behaving very strangely. That’s why the brother and sister Lina and Hringur decide to run away from home on Happadisin, their homemade boat. Their desti- nation is Shadowskerry – the creepy island out by the horizon that everybody is afraid of. An exciting story, funny and abundantly decorated.
HARDCOVER YEARS • Nominated for the Icelandic Literary Prize for Children 193 pp, 14x21 cm 9+ Chapters in English available and Young People´s books • Nominated for the Icelandic Women‘s Literature Prize · 33 · · 34 · Index ┘
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The Art Museum Listasafnið, 2012
The setting up of The Natural History Museum and The Antiques Museum went well. All that’s left is the top floor where the Art Museum is supposed to be. But the space is a mess and very little to put on display aside from insignificant paintings and ugly statues. Runar’s dad is offered a job abroad and gets his mother to come and 8–12 YEARS finish the job. She recruits help from various HARDCOVER places – from unusual friends from near and far, 201 pp, 13,5 x 28 cm the children in Asgardur, and mysterious natural forces.
The Natural History Museum Náttúrugripasafnið, 2011
In a dusty shop in New York, Runar is given a mysterious package and asked to take it to Iceland. At the same time his friends receive a strange delivery from a woman they didn’t even HARDCOVER know existed. At home in Asgardur preparations 204 pp, 13,5 x 28 cm for the opening of the Natural History Museum are under way; a stuffed polar bear will be on show, but something exciting is lacking. Some- thing quite unique!
The Antiques Museum Forngripasafnið, 2010
Runar has just moved to a small village where his father has taken up the post of museum curator. HARDCOVER 198 pp, 13,5 x 28 cm Along with the kids from next door, Runar helps Chapters in English available his dad to organise the museum, but then myste- rious things begin to come to light.
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ILLUSTRATED FICTION Heart of Stone Steinhjartað, 2005
Siblings Stina and Jonni are expecting a visit from their friend Skafti. But as soon as he steps onto the plane that is supposed to be taking him to the city, a mysterious chain of events is set in motion, and the kids will have to do every- thing they can to save themselves – and indeed the whole world – from imminent disaster. A breath-takingly exciting book with lively and colourful illustrations.
• Nominated for the Icelandic Bookseller’s Prize as the best children’s HARDCOVER 208 pp, 13,5 x 18 cm book of 2005 English translation available 6–12 YEARS The Frozen Toes Frosnu tærnar, 2004
Everything’s changed at High Hillock now that the curse of the Fog Queen has been lifted. But there is still something strange going on in the country, and so Stina and Jonni head out again on a dangerous mission, now accompanied by young Stevie. Among the magical items they carry with them are three small bottles containing potions of various
HARDCOVER colors, a yellowed scrap of paper with musical notes written 240 pp, 13,5 x 18 cm Greenlandish and Faeroese on it, and a pair of striped green pants with innumerable translations available pockets. But will this be enough? • Nominated for the West-Nordic Literary Award 6–12 YEARS The Lost Eyes Týndu augun, 2003
Mist and darkness hover over the landscape Stina and Jonni find themselves trapped in. And when they escape, the wild lava fields and creepy woods do little to cheer them up. It turns out to be a perilous journey and countless questions arise. The Lost Eyes is a breath-taking book for both boys and girls, packed with colourful pictures by one of Iceland’s most loved children’s writers. • The Icelandic Bookseller’s Prize as the best children’s book of 2003 HARDCOVER 230 pp, 13,5 x 18 cm • Nominated for the Nordic Council Children’ and Young People´s Sold to: Hungary (People Team Millenium) English translation available Literature Prize 2003
6–12 YEARS · 35 · Index ┘
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GUNNAR HELGASON TEXT
GUNNAR HELGASON (b.1965) is a popular actor and well known for all kinds of entertaining material for children which has enjoyed great popularity for some years. Amongst other things he has directed a popular children’s program on Icelandic State TV. He received the IBBY Spring Winds award 2013 for his contribution to children’s culture in Series: Iceland. All the books in Great Football Adventure series are written with advice from Reykjavik Child Services as well as the Icelandic Football Association. Stories about the The Great footballer Jon Jonsson have been mainstays on Icelandic Football bestseller lists for the past years. Adventure Goal Kick in Gothenburg Gula spjaldið í Gautaborg, 2014
I had no choice but to concentrate on the game and forget all my troubles. Forget the girls, Toti and everything else on my list, for one moment. Easier said than done. You’ll understand if you read the list. Number three on it was: make sure no one dies. The Great Football Adventure… CONTINUES!
Jon Jonsson and friends are off to the world’s biggest youth championship in football – the Gothia Cup in Gothenburg, Sweden. Teeming crowds of footballers – guys and girls – are flocking to the city, each and all dead-set on returning home with a gold medal around their neck. But in Gothenburg, life isn’t just about football. What is the meaning of that bull in Jon’s dreams, and will everyone return home alive? How will things turn out with Ivar and his dad? And how to tackle romance, when you have horm-
HARDCOVER ones rushing through your veins and zits spreading like 341pp, 14 x 21 cm wildfire?
YEARS FROM 8 · 36 · · 37 · Index ┘
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Offside in Reykjavík Rangstæður í Reykjavík, 2013
Jon Jonsson and his mates from Throttur Football Club have arrived at ReyCup along with boys and girls in third and fourth divisions from all over the country and even from abroad! The tension is incredible, both on the field and off, and the boys discover that the offside rules are complicated, both in football and in life itself. HARDCOVER • Children´s Choice Book Prize, 2014 264 pp, 14 x 22 cm YEARS FROM 8
Free Kick Fantasy Aukaspyrna á Akureyri, 2012
The great football adventure continues in this thrilling story. Jon Jonsson and his friends continue to fight for victory, both on and off the field. As they say: you lose some, you win some. • Children´s Choice Book Prize, 2013
HARDCOVER 264 pp, 14 x 22 cm YEARS FROM 8
Football Fury on Volcano Island Víti í Vestmannaeyjum, 2011
A thrilling story about great goal-keepers, doughty de- fenders, wily wingers, fleet-footed forwards, and glorious goals...but also about other things such as a surly skipper, a corrupt cop, fire-breathing mountains, and other even more serious problems that need dealing with in spite of the fact that there is a football tournament going on. • The number one bestselling children’s novel in Iceland in 2011!
HARDCOVER 264 pp, 14 x 22 cm YEARS Chapters in English available Film rights sold to Saga film FROM 8 A television series is in production · 37 · Index ┘
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KRISTJANA FRIDBJORNSDOTTIR TEXT KRISTJANA FRIDBJORNSDOTTIR (b.1976) has a degree from The Teachers University of Iceland. She has worked as primary school teacher in Reykjavik, besides organizing social activities for children and young people. She received the IBBY Spring Breeze award 2013 for her contribution to children’s culture in Iceland. Her title The Travel Log of Olafia Arndis was selected for the 2014 IBBY Honour List.
“Having read all three books, I now rate Olafia Arndis as one of my favourite fictional characters. A lively, clever girl who truly springs to life on the page.” MORGUNBLADID DAILY
“Now just go and read my blog, it’ll change your life. I mean it!” OLAFIA ARNDIS
Olafia Arndis’s Rules of Life Lífsreglur Ólafíu Arndísar, 2013
Olafia Arndis has started blogging. It wasn’t her decision, it was part of a dead boring self-image support project she was ordered to do. But now that she has started she will do it properly, of course! In her blog she writes about all the incred- ible things she experiences, the extraordinary people she meets (even at the risk of offending some of them), and, last but not least, all sorts of strange rules of life that are sometimes difficult to put into practice.
Olafia Arndis’s Rules of Life is a hilarious story HARDCOVER 127 pp, 14 x 22 cm about a rebellious girl whom readers will know
YEARS from previous titles in the series. 7–12 • Reykjavik Children’s Literature Prize 2010
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The Travel Log of Olafia Arndis Reisubók Ólafíu Arndísar, 2012
Two days into the summer vacation, Olafia Arndis’ grandmother appears out of the blue and invites her to come with her on a trip. She says she’s going to travel around in an ancient camper van and visit old friends. At first Olafia is not too keen, but decides to tag along when she is told she can have a brand new tablet computer to keep a travel log. And here we have her travel log, which is not exactly the one her grandmother was expecting!
Olafia Arndis’s Diary HARDCOVER 120 pp, 14 x 22 cm Selected for the 2014 IBBY Honour List Dagbók Ólafíu Arndísar, 2011 FROM 9 YEARS Olafia Arndis is an extremely unlucky girl. No sooner has she escaped from Flatey island (which actually turned out to be more fun than she had expected and in the end not really bad at all) than her parents up sticks and move to Dalvik. Here she starts to write a diary and also to look for work so she can save enough money to pay for the fare to Reykjavik. This very entertaining story is a sequel to Letters from Flatey Island.
Letters from Flatey Island Flateyjarbréfin, 2010
School is over and all children are happy that the summer holidays have started. Olafia Arndis will stay in Flatey island for the summer, which means she will have to send the home assignments by post to her teacher back in Reykjavik. However, in her letters Olafia Arndis tends to dwell on almost anything rather than the curriculum, as so many things happen to her on the island, even though it has very few houses and hardly any inhabitants. HARDCOVER 120 pp, 14 x 22 cm • Reykjavik Children’s Literature Prize 2010
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THORGRIMUR THRAINSSON TEXT HALLA S. THORGEIRSDOTTIR ILLUSTRATIONS (author information on page 12)
THORGRIMUR THRAINSSON (b.1959) is an award- winning author and free-lance journalist. His books for teenagers have been extremely popular in Iceland. He received the Reykjavik Children’s Literature Prize in 1991, the Visa Cultural Award in 1992 and the Icelandic Children’s Literature Prize in 1997. Thrainsson was awarded the posi- tion of city artist in Reykjavik 2013 for his contribution to children and young people's culture and the IBBY Icelandic Spring Breeze award for his contribution to children's culture in Iceland.
The Kid Who Disappeared Krakkinn sem hvarf, 2012
What is it like to have an insane inventor for a father? Kari usually finds it just fine but the day that the frozen-pipe- experiment goes out of hand, and millions of people laugh at him on YouTube, Kari is hardly the happiest eleven year old on the planet. However, he doesn’t know that his dad is considering considerably more dangerous things in his lab when no-one is looking. The Kid Who Disappeared is a lively and humorous story set in a small village where ghosts run amok, it’s highly dangerous to steal shampoo at the swimming pool, cars drive into the sea in the middle of the night, and it’s best
HARDCOVER to beware of the unknown. 198 pp, 14 x 22 cm 9+ YEARS
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THORARINN LEIFSSON
THORARINN LEIFSSON (b.1966) studied at the Icelandic Academy of Arts. In the same period he worked as a street painter in Western Europe. After graduation from art school he worked as an illustrator, billboard painter, and graphic designer. He has illustrated several books and newspaper articles. totil.com
“The Roald Dahl of Iceland!” KILJAN, NATIONAL TELEVISION
Grandmother’s Library Bókasafn ömmu Huldar, 2009
Albertina lives in a peculiar world. There are no books and the special educational machines in school only teach about loan interest rates. The Internet has been prohibited for years and the terrible Gold Bank has gained control of most of the world. Finally grownups start to disappear one by one. That’s when grandmother Huld turns up with an enormous library of
HARDCOVER books and dangerous knowledge. From now on 128 pp, 13,5 x 21 cm Sold to: Denmark (Torgard); Finland (Idun); nothing stays the same. Norway (Orkana); Estonia (Nynorden); grandmotherslibrary.com Italy (Salani); Brazil (Hedra) Chapters in English and German available • Reykjavik Children’s Literature Prize 2009 YEARS • Nominated for the Nordic Council Children and Young 9–99 People’s Literature Prize
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The Man Who Hated Children Maðurinn sem hataði börn, 2014
Sylvek lives with his grandmother, who complains about the monotony of daily life in Reykjavik. Then everything changes. Someone starts to murder young boys in Reykjavik. Simultaneously a mysterious lodger with an obnoxious dog moves into their house. The lodger says he hates children.
Woven into the story is a famous children’s PAPERBACK WITH FLAPS 250 pp, 14 x 21 cm books author, a quick-witted journalist,
Sold to: Denmark (Torgard) a detective who is afraid of the sight of blood, Film rights sold: The Icelandic Film Company and last but not least: the TV station Stasimon, which is mapping the life of Reykjavik for a TV reality show that is truly one of a kind.
• Nominated for the Icelandic Literary Prize “Highly relevant work.” for Children and Young People’s books BOOKBIRD, IBBY´S INTERNATIONAL • Nominated for the Nordic Council Children and Young People‘s Literature Prize
10+ YEARS
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ILLUSTRATED FICTION
Father’s Big Secret Leyndarmálið hans pabba, 2007
How long can you keep a terrible secret? This is the question that two siblings ponder in this book, but when their father tries to eat their best friend he goes too far and they decide to tell the police the truth – their father is a cannibal. Father’s Big Secret is a story about normal chil- dren dealing with a very abnormal problem with unforeseen consequences. At the same time the story tackles a very real problem that many chil-
HARDCOVER dren face – when do you have to tell and when 128 pp, 13,5 x 21 cm Sold to: should you keep quiet? Germany/Austria/Switzerland (LEIV); Den- mark (Torgard); Finland (Idun); fathersbigsecret.com Faroe Islands (Bókadeildin); Norway (Orkana) English translation 9+ YEARS available
“A book like this has never been written before.” NEUES-DEUTSCHLAND.DE
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ILLUSTRATED FICTION
ARMANN JAKOBSSON TEXT BERGRUN IRIS SAEVARSDOTTIR ILLUSTR ATIONS
ARMANN JAKOBSSON (b.1970) is professor of medieval literature at the University of Iceland. He has written articles about social and cultural issues in newspapers and maga- zines for decades, as well as in-depth pieces on Icelandic literature. He is the author of diverse books of fiction, non- fiction, and poetry.
BERGRUN IRIS SAEVARSDOTTIR is a recent graduate illustrator from the Reykjavik School of Visual Arts.
The Last Wizard Síðasti galdrameistarinn, 2014 When the final member of the Dragon Task Force fails to kill the country’s last remaining dragon, Kari is summoned. He is to be the King’s wizard, but has first to tackle three tasks to prove his ability. The problem is that he has no idea how to do magic. Meanwhile, an invasion by Queen Skuld, said to be both cruel and skilled in sorcery, is imminent. The Last Wizard is an exciting fairy-tale about bravery and friendship, deceit and betrayal, for readers nine years and older. In this, his first children’s book, Armann Jakobsson draws on the inexhaustible fountain of stories from 10+ medieval Norse literature. HARDCOVER 204 pp, 14 x 21,5 cm • Nominated for the Icelandic Literary Prize for Children and Young People’s Books
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FICTION
BRYNDIS BJORGVINSDOTTIR TE X T
BRYNDIS BJORGVINSDOTTIR (b.1982) is an award winning author, folklorist and adjunct professor at Iceland Academy of Arts.
The Local Joke Hafnfirðingabrandarinn, 2014
“My name is Klara, and I live in a pigsty in Hafnarfjordur. Every day, I’m committed to an institution with the other teenagers in the neighborhood. The institution is called Vidi- staðir School, and it stands in a secluded spot in the middle of a lava field. And that’s where I stay, along with the other fifteen-year-old maniacs in the tenth grade.”
In December 1999, Klara is left with her grandmother while her parents go on a holiday to the Canary Islands. The school’s Christmas ball looms on the horizon, as well as a popularity contest and a string of bizarre dates at the town’s only café. As if that isn’t trying enough for Klara, she also learns of her elderly relatives’ curious and compelling past which has come back to hunt her. The Local Joke is an uproarious story for teens
HARDCOVER and young adults of all ages. 432 ppi, 14x21 cm • The Icelandic Literary Prize for Children and Young People’s books • The Icelandic Women’s Literature Prize 2014 • The Icelandic Booksellers‘ Prize
14+ YEARS
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FICTION
The Fly Who Ended the War Flugan sem stöðvaði stríðið, 2011
The houseflies glanced back and forth between the fly on the front page and the commotion of the people. They were all thinking the same thing. No-one in the whole world would be able to explain the goings-on during the night as well as they could. They were the only ones who had seen what happened, with their sophis- ticated and perceptive housefly eyes. That is why they felt they should try and explain what brought about the end of the war and a housefly ending up on the front pages of all the world’s biggest newspapers. Kolkex, Hermann Sukker, and The Fly are just ordinary houseflies. The sort of flies very few people notice and which hardly ever do anything significant. Until the day they decide to run away from home and seek out the good monks of Nepal. The Fly Who Ended the War is an unusual story, both hilarious and deadly serious at the same time; it is about flies, people, and war. • Icelandic Children’s Literature Prize 2011 It was chosen from a large number of scripts HARDCOVER 108 pp, 14 x 22 cm that competed for the 2011 Icelandic Children´s Sold to: France (Bayard Jeunesse) Literature Prize. English translation available 9+ YEARS
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FICTION
GERDUR KRISTNY TEXT (author information on page 24)
The Garden Garðurinn, 2008
Eyja is shocked when she looks through the window in her new flat and sees an enormous cemetery full of gloomy tombs and gravestones just across the street. Talking about neighbours! Still, the situation doesn’t get critical until her father buys a brown leather chair. Her parents think the chair is excellent, but Eyja instantly feels that it has brought something unwelcome into her home – something malignant. In her new school Eyja has great fun with her new mates, but best of all is Solvi – the boy who is perhaps a friend, perhaps a boy-friend, and perhaps in 10th grade.
• The Icelandic Booksellers’ Prize 2008 • The West-Nordic Children’s Literature Prize 2010
HARDCOVER 152 pp, 14 x 21,5 cm YEARS English chapters available 10+ Sold to: Germany/Austria/Switzerland (Saga Verlag); Norway (Bokvennen); Denmark (Vandkunsten) Film rights sold to: Pegasus Pictures
· 47 · Index ┘
FICTION
KRISTIN HELGA GUNNARSDOTTIR TE X T (see author information on page 26)
Ghost Trail Draugaslóð, 2007
In the deserted highlands two brothers have gone missing in a snowstorm, and Eyvindur Thoruson is determined to find out what’s going on. Eyvindur, Eyvi to his friends, lives with his grandmother and their two cats in an old house by a lake. Life has been pretty much routine all of his thirteen years so, when Eyvi’s mother turns up out of the blue to invite him to spend the summer in a traveller’s lodge in the highlands, he jumps at the chance. During their journey into Kjolur, terrain of spooky tales of ghosts and outlaws, and the area where the two boys were last seen, Eyvi gets catapulted into a breathtaking adventure. HARDCOVER 207 pp, 13,5 x 21 cm Ghost Trail is an exciting book, abounding with colourful Chapters in English and German available characters, ghost stories, mystery and suspense. Full translation available in Danish • The West-Nordic Children’s Literature Prize 2007 • Nominated for the Nordic Council Children and Young People’s 9+ YEARS Literature Prize 2009 • The Icelandic Women‘s Literature Prize 2008 • IBBY Honour List 2010
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FICTION
The Rhyolite Order Ríólítreglan, 2011
Hrafn has almost finished organizing the com- munity centre’s spring trip to the mountains when he disappears without a trace. The young- sters who were planning to go on the trip are devastated – not least his four friends who hang around the community centre most days. In the meantime everything is going haywire in Noi’s home, with elf experts toiling every day to paci- fy the invisible folk who previously occupied the area. Suddenly the charming Trausti appears out of nowhere, offering to take on Hrafn’s role. On a bright spring morning they set off from HARDCOVER YEARS 200 pp, 14 x 22 cm 12+ school in a coach, but seeds of doubt are every- Chapters in English available where – both on board the coach and amongst those left behind. The Rhyolite Order is a thrilling story, where legendary characters roam at large and it is a good idea to keep a piece of rhyolite in one’s pocket in order to protect oneself from the past.
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FANTASY
GUNNAR TH. EGGERTSSON TE X T
GUNNAR THEODOR EGGERTSSON (b.1982) has a de- gree in literature and cinema. He received the Icelandic Chil- dren’s Literature Prize for his first book, The Stone Animals.
The Stone Creatures Steinskrípin, 2012
“The land was washed-out and cold as far as the eye could see…” Berg wakes up one day and the sun is high in the sky, but everything else is unfamiliar. The world is grey and dull, ruled by the Stone Creatures – terrifying monsters with slimy arms and razor sharp claws...However, Berg is not alone in the world. A mysterious, cape-clad girl follows him at every turn. She is born into this gritty world and has never known anything but monsters and hardship. They set out on a dangerous journey together with a precious item in a bag – possibly mankind’s only hope to beat the Creatures and reclaim the planet.
FICTION, HARDCOVER 198 pp, 14 x 21,5 cm 10+ YEARS The Stone Animals Steindýrin, 2008
How can a dog turn into a statue? That is somewhat mysterious but exactly what happened: Ring, old Ulf’s dog turned into a statue and immediately all the grown-ups in our village be- haved as if he’d never existed. And Ring wasn’t the only animal to disappear without a trace leaving a stone statue behind. We had to get to the bottom of it. Which is why Erla, Haukur, and myself entered Dark-cave on a more adventurous quest than anyone could ever have foreseen. According to the jury of the award this is an exciting and FICTION, HARDCOVER original adventure story inspired in folk-tales and legends, 198 pp, 14 x 21,5 cm Chapters in English available yet unique.
• The Icelandic Children’s Literature Price 2008 · 50 · · 51 · Index ┘
FANTASY
HILDUR KNUTSDOTTIR TEXT
HILDUR KNUTSDOTTIR (b.1984) volunteered in Guate- mala after graduating from college and travelled through Latin America. After that she spent a winter in Berlin and lived in Taiwan for a year, studying Chinese at Chengchi University, Taipei. She has previously published a novel for adults.
The Prophecy Spádómurinn, 2012
“They simply appear beside children the night after they are born and disappear the night after a person dies.“ Sigyn smiled the weariest smile Kolfinna had ever seen. “They are one of the mysteries of life. The wings and the East.”
Kolfinna is fifteen years old and life is full of questions: What is the point of having wings if you can’t use them? What is the threat her parents whisper about out in the shed, when they think she doesn’t hear? And what does it say in the prophecy, which only the adults in the village know?
HARDCOVER The Prophecy is a gripping story from an exotic 210 pp, 14 x 21,5 cm YEARS 10+ world where mysterious forces seek power and it is the fate of a teenage girl to fight back.
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FANTASY
KJARTAN YNGVI BJORNSSON SNAEBJORN BRYNJARSSON TE X T
KJARTAN YNGVI BJORNSSON and SNA EBJOR N BRYNJARSSON are both born 1984 and have been friends since secondary school. Both are great fans of fantasy fic- tion. Kjartan has a degree in Literature and creative writing. Snaebjorn has studied theatre both in Iceland and Japan and is currently living in Paris, where he works as a theatremaker and writer.
Dreamsword Draumsverð, 2013
Near a thousand years ago the seven sages created their seals to imprison the Shadows, but now they are breaking. The evil wizards are awakening and can once more touch the three worlds. After their pale men and harpies decimated the village Vebakki, Ragnar, Breki and Sirja have been fleeing for their lives. Ragnar has discovered that he carries within himself one of the seven seals and with it comes great and terrible magic he must learn to control.
Now their path lies south, into the darkness of the swamps that surround the ruins of Kaernelon, where the bog-witch Hedwig Wurmlord is said to dwell. With the aid of Nanuk, the mysterious hunter from the north, they must face death and seek out Hedwig in the swamps where terrifying monsters await and Sirja be- HARDCOVER 383 pp, 14 x 22 cm 11+ YEARS gins to hear a familiar song she has never heard before.
Dreamsword is the second book in the Three Worlds Series, a thrilling saga of blood magic, hidden secrets, and forgotten fiends that threaten all three worlds. The first book, Raveneye, won the Icelandic Children’s “An energetic and exciting continuation Literature Prize in 2012 as well as the Icelandic Book- of Raveneye. Fantasy with a large scope, sellers’ Prize, for best young adult fiction book in the believable characters, and a great story.” same year. FRETTABLADID DAILY
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FANTASY
“... the beginning of an incredible series of books.” MORGUNBLADID DAILY
“Raveneye is a timeless fairytale and classic fantasy, immensely entertaining and exciting, and tremendously well-written.” FRETTABLADID DAILY
Raveneye Hrafnsauga, 2012
Almost a thousand years have passed since the Age of Darkness, when the seven sages joined forces and van- quished the Shadows. The dark times are now mostly forgotten. But though Man‘s memory is fleeting, the ancient forces never forget. The initiation festival is coming soon, the day when the shaman will tell Ragnar, Breki, Sirja, and their peers in the village what their roles and duties are to be. The youths should be enjoying their last carefree days in the summer sun, but the future holds different
HARDCOVER things in store. 383 pp, 14 x 22 cm Chapters in English available The ancient forces that once plunged the world into YEARS 11+ relentless night have stirred again and their harpies are afoot. They are seeking something in the village. It is not long before the children are drawn into events that they don’t understand, but soon they realize that their actions will decide the fate of three worlds. Raveneye is the first book in the Three Worlds Series, a thrilling saga of blood-magic, hidden secrets, and
• The Icelandic Children’s Literature Prize 2012 forgotten fiends that threaten all three worlds. • The Icelandic Booksellers’ Prize as the best book for best young adult fiction 2012
· 52 · · 53 · Index ┘
FANTASY
ANDRI SNAER MAGNASON TEXT (author information on page 23)
Time Casket Tímakistan, 2013
When things are looking bad and economists predict a massive financial crisis, Sigrun’s family is lucky – they can crawl into their black caskets and wait for better times. But one day, her casket opens and she is confronted by an abandoned city in ruins, with everyone stuck in black caskets waiting for things to get better. Sigrun meets a strange old lady in a house full of children and archaeological artefacts. The old lady tells them a story of a greedy king who conquered the world but yearned to conquer time. With a magical casket, transparent like glass but made of spidersilk, with such a dense weave that even time cannot penetrate the walls, the king can spare his beautiful princess the rainy days, the normal days and the worth- less days. HARDCOVER 296 pp, 14 x 21,5 cm 10+ One day a small boy opens the casket and the Denmark (Tiderne Skifter); Hungary (Gondolat Kiado); princess discovers that 20 years have passed, Turkey (Domingo Yayınevi) English translation available the kingdom is crumbling and the king has
gone mad. There seems to be a connexion of some sort between the old woman’s story and Sigrun’s world. She and her friends must find the link, which will hopefully show them how to fix the world.
• The Icelandic Literary Prize, for Children and Young People’s Books • The West-Nordic Literature Prize 2013 • Nomination for The Nordic Council Children and Young People‘s Literature Prize · 54 · • Reykjavik Children’s Literature Prize 2014 · 55 · • Icelandic Booksellers‘ Prize as best teenage book of the year
Index ┘
YOUNG ADULT
SIF SIGMARSDOTTIR TE X T
SIF SIGMARSDOTTIR (b.1978) is a writer and a freelance journalist. She graduated from the University of Iceland with a BA in history and later attended the University of Reading where she received a MA in children’s literature.
Freya’s Saga – Treasure Freyju Saga: Djásn
“I have blood on my hands. I can still feel its warmth against my skin as it smudges the pages of this diary. But it’s not the murder I just committed that plagues my conscience. No. It’s what will follow. I don’t know how many, but more people will die. For I have just killed Mimir. I have blood on my hands.”
Freya has reached the beautiful city of Vana- heim, with its bright lights and marble towers. But beneath the polished surface something is not right. What really goes on in the Temple? And who are the Maimed? When Freya receives a letter from a friend who she thought was dead she is faced with a decision that could spell the
HARDCOVER end for the people of Iceland, the last remaining 405 pp, 14 x 21 cm Chapters in English available survivors on Earth. Should she stand by her father, the President of the Continent? Or YEARS 11–111 should she follow her own path and betray him? In book one, Freya escaped the walled city. She is about to discover that constraints do not have to be seen for an entire city to be imprisoned.
· 55 · Index ┘
YOUNG ADULT
Freya’s Saga: The Wall Freyju Saga: Múrinn
Will the truth set you free... or imprison you for life?
She wants to know about her past. He wants to use it for revenge. The city will kill to keep it secret.
The walled city of Donol is haunted by a deci- sion made a generation ago. When Freya is contacted by an Outsider, who has somehow slipped through the city’s defences, she starts to uncover a family secret she was never meant to learn. But as Freya sets out to discover the truth she is faced with an impossible obstacle: The entire population of Donol. When she is warned that its Leader, Zheng, has sent his Guards to look for her, she becomes a fugitive. In a city fenced in with concrete and where no one can be trusted there is only one place to run: Out.
The Wall is the first book in a series called Freya’s Saga, a Dark Tale, based on Norse
HARDCOVER mythology. A dramatic page-turner. 365 pp, 15,5 x 23,5 cm Chapters in English available • Nominated for the Icelandic Literary Prize for Children and Young People’s books YEARS 11–111 • Nominated for the Icelandic Women‘s Literature Prize • The Icelandic Booksellers’ Prize for the best children‘s novel of 2013
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YOUNG ADULT
I’m No Drama Queen Ég er ekki dramadrottning, 2006
Embla starts blogging the day she finds out that her family is about to move to England. She thinks it’s terrible news, she doesn’t want to leave her friends and, least of all, a boy in her class that she’s had her eye on (although unfor- tunately the feeling doesn’t seem to be mutual). This stirs her to take drastic measures that will have their consequences. A vibrant and enter- taining story by a new author.
HARDCOVER 160 pp, 15,5 x 23,5 cm YEARS Sold to: 12–16 France (Bayard Jeunesse)
Once Upon a Time There Was a Drama Queen Einu sinni var dramadrottning í ríki sínu, 2007
When Embla learns that her boy friend plans to break up with her, she decides to take action. Determined to make sure that the adventure of her life has a happy ending, despite a temporary setback, she begins her search for a new prince charming. Unfortunately, the rules of fairy tales do not apply to Embla’s life. Not only do frogs not turn into princes, but princes do turn into frogs, and neither friendly dwarves nor helpful HARDCOVER fairy godmothers cross her path. A terribly 160 pp, 15,5 x 23,5 cm YEARS 12–16 funny tale that made a real hit with Icelandic youths.
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YOUNG ADULT
ARNDIS THORARINSDOTTIR TE X T
ARNDIS THORARINSDOTTIR (b.1982) has previously published many short stories for children and adults. This is her first novel.
Confessions of a Milk Carton Poet Játningar mjólkurfernuskálds, 2011
It is all-important to make a good first impression. Halla knows this perfectly well! Which is why on the first day at the new school she makes sure her hair is freshly washed and her clothes are carefully chosen. The problem is that the rumour got there before her: She is the drug pusher from the West- side of town and nothing can change that image. So the only thing is to play along!
• Nominated for the Nordic Council Children and Young People’s Literature Prize
HARDCOVER 240 pp, 12 x 22 cm Chapters in English available
12+ YEARS
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YOUNG ADULT
THORGRIMUR THRAINSSON TEXT (author information on page 40)
Help! Hjálp!, 2014
“Call the emergency services or... or the cops... Dad... anyone at all... HELP!” bellowed Matthildur, barely able to put the thoughts racing through her head into words. She grabbed Neptunus, but he didn’t react. Kesang sat tight, with arms crossed and a frightening expression, but both Olga and Smari reached for their phones. Moey Rogn had unfastened her seatbelt and collapsed on the floor, shaking.” Five teenagers drive into the darkness, armed only with GPS coordinates and vague directions towards a natural hot spring in the wilderness. The moon casts a somber deepblue HARDCOVER light over the landscape, and they all have an uneasy feeling 208 pp, 14 x 22 cm as they step out of the car. Yet none has an inkling of the YOUNG ADULT terror lurking in dark. Help! is a thrilling story for teenagers by Thorgrimur Thrainsson, which keeps readers gnawing their nails from start to finish.
Double O Nine Núll núll 9, 2009
Life follows its accustomed routine for Joel and his friends until Ania turns up. She is unlike anyone Joel has ever met, and after she suddenly sits down at his table in the Blue Pot Café one weird event follows another. And her computer, which has unexpectedly been left in Joel’s hands, contains evidence of events which could affect • The Children’s Choice Book Prize, 2010 the future of Iceland. HARDCOVER 212 pp, 14 x 22 cm YEARS 12–16 · 59 · Index ┘
YOUNG ADULT
JONINA LEOSDOTTIR TE X T
JONINA LEOSDOTTIR (b.1954) has worked as a writer and journalist for decades and has had several recognitions for her work.
A Matter of Life and Death Upp á líf og dauða, 2011
“It is obvious. Whoever wrote the poem is experiencing a desperate inner struggle and might even have lost the will to live. This is an S.O.S.! But who sent it?”
Hronn finds a piece of paper with a very sad poem after a few schoolmates have been to her home to work on a class project. She sets out to find the person who wrote it and lend him, or her, a helping hand, but that is easier said than done. Five of Hronn’s classmates were at her house and she has no way of knowing which one of them left the piece of paper, deliberately or by chance. Her twin-creep of a brother and her best friend also join the search. But their interest in the mystery soon wears thin, as they get engrossed HARDCOVER 179 pp, 14 x 22 cm in something totally different. Chapters in English available A humorous thriller about depression and Sold to: Hungary (Pozsonyi Pagony) possible suicide. Jonina Leosdottir’s novels for young adults 12+ YEARS have been extremely popular and she received an acknowledgement from IBBY for the trilogy that began with Kisses & Olives. A Matter of Life and Death is a lively and exciting story about a deadly serious matter that many people, sooner or later, encounter.
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YOUNG ADULT
Me and You Ég og þú, 2009
Kata is going crazy without her boyfriend in Brighton. She talks about him non-stop. Anna is more reserved about her feelings, and no one knows that she, too, left her heart in England. Me and You is the third book about the teenager Anna and her first acquaintance with love. HARDCOVER 185 pp, 14 x 21,5 cm 12+ YEARS Black and White Svart & hvítt, 2008
Black & White is an independent sequel to Kisses and Olives. After an eventful summer in England Anna starts secondary school in Reykjavik. In her mind she grapples with many things after her stay in Brighton, but nothing compared to the chaos that reigns in the head of her friend, Kata. Kata can’t get Deepak, the Indian boy she met in Brighton, out of her mind, but his parents have arranged his wedding with a girl in India he doesn’t even know. It becomes clear that the girls will not get to the bot- tom of all of this, unless they go back to England and take charge HARDCOVER 184 pp, 14 x 21,5 cm of the situation.
12+ YEARS • The IBBY-in-Iceland Spring Breezes Award
Kisses and Olives Kossar og ólífur, 2007
In Kisses & Olives we follow teen-queen Anna to Brighton, England where she works at a hotel over the summer. There she gets to know many surprising things – new situations and interesting people, but also new feelings she never had before. Kisses and Olives is an engaging story by Jonina Leosdottir that should appeal to all teenagers.
HARDCOVER • The IBBY-in-Iceland Spring Breezes Award 184 pp, 14 x 21,5 cm Chapters in English available and synopsis
12+ YEARS · 61 · Index ┘
SAGAS AND MYTHOLOGY
INGUNN ASDISARDOTTIR TEXT KRISTIN R. GUNNARSDOTTIR ILLUSTRATIONS
INGUNN ASDISARDOTTIR (b.1952) is currently working on her PhD in Norse Mythology. She has worked as a theatre director, literary reviewer and translator, and is now working as a free-lance inves- tigator of Norse mythology as well as collaborating in an international project regarding heathen practices in the Nordic countries. KRISTIN RAGNA GUNNARSDOTTIR (b.1968) is a free-lance illustrator and artist. She has a degree in literary studies and has worked as a graphic de- signer and teacher. She received the Dimmalimm, the Icelandic Illustration Award in 2008.
Norse Mythology Örlög guðanna, 2008
Norse Mythology recounts many of the fascinat- ing myths passed down through the centuries by people in the Nordic countries. These are the most widespread tales of this Northern heritage, telling of the creation of the world, dealings between the gods and Ragnarok, the end of the world, all of them finely illustrated. HARDCOVER 128 pp, 21,5 x 26 cm • Nominated for the Icelandic Literary Prize 2008 Chapters in German available • The Icelandic Illustration Award 2008 FOR ALL AGES
· 62 · · 63 · Index ┘
SCIENCE
VILHELM ANTON JONSSON TE X T
VILHELM ANTON JONSSON (b.1978) has a degree in philosophy from the University of Iceland. He is a visual artist and musician, and has hosted a number of popular TV programmes.
Villi’s Science Book 2 Vísindabók Villa, 2014
Villi’s Science Book Vísindabók Villa, 2013
Science-Villi has saved himself and his friends from trouble many times with all kinds of in-
HARDCOVER ventions, since he is enthusiastically interested 96 pp 25 x 30 cm in science and his favorite question is: WHY? In these books, Villi goes far and wide and explains electricity, the sun, rockets, blood, atoms, wind, cryptography, and much, much, MUCH more in a simple and fun way. Also both books have plenty of great experiments that are easy to do at home. Villi´s science book is a wonderful way to int- erest the whole family in our surroundings and the works of wonder that we ourselves and the whole wide world are.
• The number one bestselling children´s HARDCOVER book in Iceland in 2013 96 pp 25 x 30 cm • Nominated for the Icelandic Literary Prize for Children and Young People’s books 2013
· 63 · 5-12 YAERS Index ┘
SCIENCE
THORSTEINN VILHJALMSSON JON GUNNAR T HORSTEINSSON TEXT FROM THE ICELANDIC SCIENCENET WEBSITE THORARINN MAR BALDURSSON ILLUSTRATIONS (see author information on page 13)
THORSTEINN VILHJALMSSON is a physicist, professor emeritus at the University of Iceland. JON GUNNAR THORSTEINSSON has a degree in literary studies and is the director of the ScienceNet website. Why Do Mountains Erupt? Questions and Answers About Volcanoes Af hverju gjósa fjöll?, 2011
Why Do Mountains Erupt? contains 40 questions and answers about volcanic eruptions from The Icelandic ScienceNet website. All answers are accompanied by interesting explanatory pictures, and maps display all of Earth’s main volcanoes and tectonic boundaries. The answers are presented in a simple fashion, yet with scientific pre-cision; the book is intended for HARDCOVER 32 pp, 22 x 25,5 cm those interested in acquiring knowledge, from Sold to: Estonia (Valgus) 8+ YEARS eight years upwards.
Why do volcanic eruptions happen? Do volcanoes always erupt? Where do most eruptions take place on Earth? Are there volcanic eruptions in space? What is so special about the Surtsey and Heimaey eruptions? What do I need to study to become a volcanologist? Find the answers in the book and become more knowledgeable about volcanoes!
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